Two-degree-of-freedom vortex-induced vibrations using a force assisted apparatus

We report results from two-degree-of-freedom vortex-induced vibration tests on a flexibly mounted, rigid, smooth cylinder in cross-flow. The tests are performed for six in-line natural frequency to transverse natural frequency ratios. The Reynolds number based on diameter ranged from 11 000 to 60 000. To reduce structural damping in both directions, an apparatus utilizing two linear motors was used. Increasing the in-line to transverse frequency ratio caused a shift in the peak amplitude response to increasingly higher reduced velocities; and at a frequency ratio of 1.9, two distinct response peaks appear, in agreement with earlier experiments by Sarpkaya in 1995. Other comparisons are made with the low mass-damping, two-degree-of-freedom experiments by Jauvtis and Williamson in 2004. The frequency ratio affects the phase lag between transverse and in-line oscillations and hence the shape of the cylinder orbital.